I moved to Finland years ago but I haven’t figured out yet what’s the proper footwear for staying outdoors in Winter (aurora hunting for example would sometimes require waiting outdoors for a few hours). My feet always get moist and then become cold because of that. Not sure if this problem is unique as I haven’t really seen any posts or comments about this issue. Any tips would be appreciated.
I have winter boots very similar to the one linked. I also wear two layers of wool socks. Is there something else i should do?
by pitofi
3 comments
Do you have room for your feet in your shoes after 2 socks? A common problem is not having air in the shoe. If your shoe is completely full with the 2 socks, you might get better insulation with 1 wool sock. You need a lot of room in the shoe for them to be warm while standing around. You also need as much insulation as possible on the underside.
In general, shoes that work for standing still for hours are not going to be best shoes for walking. This is just how it works. There aren’t really jack of all trades when it comes to shoes. If you want super warm shoes, go for “winter wellingtons” (lämpösaappaat or talvisaappaat in Finnish). Boots with internal liners that can be removed are best for winter as you can dry those out easily. Sorels used to be great but I have heard that they aren’t so good anymore. Something like this will be warm: [https://happyangler.fi/tuote/safari-polar-60c-lamposaapas/](https://happyangler.fi/tuote/safari-polar-60c-lamposaapas/)
You shouldn’t really worry about breathability when it comes to these really warm boots. They will not breathe regardless of the material. You will need to dry them out after every extended use.
Wear wool or wool mixture socks, never cotton as “cotton kills”. Wool insulates well even it has absorbed moisture.
Your boots+socks are probably too warm for the outside temperature, and waterproofness keeps the vapor inside. If the socks fill your boots completely, there’s on room for air. Air will work as an insulator better than your socks. Also don’t tighten the shoes too much, so blood can circulate easily and keep your feet warm.